CIWEM's Environmental Photographer of the Year is calling for entries that deal with some of the most important issues of our time.
Now in its fourth year, CIWEM's Environmental Photographer of the Year is one of the fastest growing photographic competitions in the world, with 2,500 pictures entered in 2009 from over 60 countries. It is an international showcase for the very best in environmental photography, honouring amateur and professional photographers who use their ability to raise awareness of environmental and social issues.
EPOTY is open to international photographers of any age and encourages entries that are contemporary, creative, resonant, original and beautiful. This year's categories are Mott MacDonald's Changing Climates; The Natural World; Quality of Life; Innovation in the Environment (New for 2010); The Underwater World (New for 2010); A View From the Western World (New for 2010); and CIWEM's Young Environmental Photographer of the Year (Under 16 & Under 21).
Each year the judging panel is made up of some of the most respected environmental photographers in the industry, including Gary Braasch, winner of the Ansel Adams Award for Conservation Photography, and senior environmentalists such as Lord Chris Smith, Chairman of the Environment Agency. Individual pieces are judged on impact, creativity, composition, originality and technical abilities. Winners receive cash prizes and all winning entries are displayed in the Environmental Photographer of the Year exhibition. This year, particular recognition was given to CIWEM's Young Environmental Photographer of the Year 2009 by Prime Minister Gordon Brown who selected Jordan Mary, 19, to take Number 10's official Christmas card.
The competition will run until 31st July 2010, with judging taking place throughout August.
Judge Nick Reeves, CIWEM's Executive Director, said:
"Protecting our environment is the most pressing problem we face and the Environmental Photographer of the Year highlights the challenges that face people on an everyday basis, whilst also allowing us to appreciate the wonder and beauty that surrounds us."
For more information contact Emily Doyle, CIWEM Press and Marketing Officer, on 020 7831 3110 or emily@ciwem.org.